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The list below reflects CGYA member programs that meet or exceed the foundational eligibility requirements and have completed our comprehensive evaluation process.

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The Firs Discipleship Program

The Firs // Bellingham, WA

Visit the Program Website
PROGRAM CONTACT

Kelly Ellis
[email protected]
360-733-6840 x 226

PROGRAM DETAILS
Duration: October to August (10 months)
Cost: $13,500.00
Financial Aid: Yes
Capacity: 40 participants
Events/Experiences: Outdoor Excursion/Experience, Service Learning, Professional Development
COLLEGE CREDIT
Credit Available? Yes, but enrollment is optional.
How Many Credits? Up to 30
Cost Per Credit: $150.00 – Is an additional cost.
PROGRAM OUTCOMES

(Top 4 of 4)

Spiritual Growth and Discipleship — Students will live in Christian community while growing in their faith individually and with one another. A core focus will be on establishing healthy spiritual disciplines and developing healthy rhythms for a life-long pursuit of Jesus.
Apologetics — Coursework will be tailored towards introducing students to a deep and developing understanding of scripture. Upon completion of the program, students will be able to articulate their faith in the real world, with an educated, researched, and practically applicable perspective.
Community-Centered — We believe we were created for community. Students will become a part of The Firs community, the Whatcom County community, and their church community. A core aspect of the program is learning how to be an active member of a church congregation; building multigenerational relationships, volunteering, and participating weekly in church ministry. Volunteer experiences with local ministries will be a regular part of the program curriculum.
Ministry Experiences — The Firs operates year-round ministry programs that offer a rich educational experience for students. With several unique programs—summer overnight camp, summer day camp, a year-round after school program and forest preschool, and two retreat facilities—students will have the opportunity to volunteer in all areas of ministry during their 10-month program. This well-rounded and robust ministry experience internship will allow students the opportunity to explore a variety of ministry occupations, while providing an ideal platform for using their developing apologetics and discipleship skills.

Program Description

The Firs Discipleship Program, in partnership with our flagship ministries, offers young adults aged 18-24 the opportunity to develop a radically rooted faith built on the truths found in Scripture.

In today’s rapidly changing world, many young Christians feel adrift in a shifting cultural landscape. Our school serves as a crucial link between formal education and the deep longing for spiritual grounding. Through partnerships with Eleven6 and Anchor Christian University, alongside The Firs Ministry programs, we provide young adults with a chance to cultivate a lifelong journey of discipleship in following Jesus. 

The convergence of genuine discipleship, formal post-secondary education, and practical ministry experiences will enrich our students’ faith, expand their knowledge of scripture, and strengthen their relationship with their Creator.

Accommodations

Discipleship Students will live on the campus of The Firs Bible and Missionary Conference Center, in the heart of Bellingham, WA and less than a mile from the beautiful shores of Lake Whatcom. Students will live in a dormitory setting, in shared rooms. Meals will be served in the campus dining hall. 

Both semesters of the program will involve mentoring, spiritual formation, and experiential learning, culminating in a paid summer internship at one of our summer camp ministries. 

Who is the program for?

18-24 year olds who:

  • Have graduated from high school
  • Have an active and growing relationship with Jesus
  • Desire intentional discipleship and mentoring so they can grow deeper in their faith
  • Are interested in volunteer/missions opportunities 

And who want to:

  • Deepen their identity in Christ
  • Find belonging and understanding of culture
  • Pursue the mission of God

Program Location(s)

Primary Location:

4605 Cable St
Bellingham, WA 98229 United States

The Firs hosts 1 total locations. Visit the program page on their website for info on alternative options.

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